How Fremantle's Walyalup Bridge is setting new benchmarks

The project's achievements extend well beyond the delivery of Australia's first extradosed bridge.

During construction, the Fremantle Bridges Alliance became the first in Western Australia to deploy an electric crane powered by Australia's first battery trailer. This helped reduce diesel consumption, carbon emissions and noise on site.

Lower-carbon concrete mixes, responsible sourcing practices and innovative construction methods contributed to a reduction in material-related carbon emissions, significantly exceeding project targets.

Environmental outcomes were further enhanced through the introduction of an Australian-first scour protection system designed to support marine life and protect the Swan River environment for generations to come. More than 600 tonnes of timber from the original bridge was salvaged and reused as part of the project's circular economy approach.

The project delivered lasting social benefits, including more than 75,000 Aboriginal work hours and employment, training and procurement opportunities that have supported Aboriginal workers, businesses and communities.

Managing Director - Australia, Mark Dimmock, said “Projects like this don't happen by chance. They are built by people who are prepared to challenge convention, work through complexity and never lose sight of the outcome. As we open the new Walyalup Bridge, I want to sincerely thank every person who contributed to this achievement. Together, you have delivered Australian firsts, created an enduring landmark for Western Australia and written a proud new chapter in Laing O'Rourke's history. Congratulations and thank you.”

Director – Technical and Health & Safety, Tom Mullens said “Our founders, Ray and Des O'Rourke, have always challenged traditional construction methods by asking a simple question: is there a better way? At its core, MMC is about achieving better outcomes. Better safety. Better certainty. Better quality. Better productivity. More inclusivity. The new Walyalup Bridge is a powerful example of what's possible when we apply that thinking to complex infrastructure projects and we look forward to bringing the same approach to future projects.”

To learn more about how Modern Methods of Construction are transforming infrastructure delivery, read Tom Mullens' thought leadership article.